Burnett went on to appear as the boozy Miss Hannigan in the 1982 film version of “Annie” and in a supporting role in the '90s NBC sitcom “Mad About You.”

David Rubenstein, chairman of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, which hands out the prize, praised Burnett in a statement: “From her television program and appearances, as well as her performances on Broadway and in film, Carol Burnett has entertained generations of fans with her vibrant wit and hilarious characters.”

According to the Kennedy Center, the prize is awarded to "people who have had an impact on American society in ways similar to the distinguished 19th century novelist and essayist Samuel Clemens" — a.k.a. Mark Twain, for those of you who weren't paying attention in ninth-grade English class.

Burnett was also a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors in 2003 for her lifetime contributions to American culture.